May 29, 2024
Today, the EPA announced the third round of funding for the Clean School Bus Program of nearly $900 million. This popular program replaces diesel school buses with cleaner options. Diesel school buses are known for high levels of toxic pollutants that can be higher inside the bus cabin than outside the bus. This phenomenon, known as self-polluting, happens when harmful diesel emissions accumulate inside the bus where schoolchildren ride.
Passed in 2021, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law commits $5 billion over 5 years to swapping out dirty diesel buses with cleaner buses. With today’s funding announcement, almost $3 billion will be awarded resulting in the deployment of 8,500 clean school buses of which over 90% are electric. The program prioritizes schools in disadvantaged communities, aligning it with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative. Plug In America commends the administration for investing in a cleaner, healthier, and more equitable school transportation.
“I can’t think of better news for our climate or our kids,” said Ingrid Malmgren, Plug In America’s senior policy director. “Investing in clean school buses improves air quality for our children, bus drivers, school staff, and surrounding communities. The EPA Clean School Bus Program demonstrates a commitment to our schools, our children, and our future.”
About Plug In America
Plug In America is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to accelerating the use of plug-in electric vehicles in the United States. Formed in 2008, Plug In America provides practical, objective information to consumers and dealerships about EVs through various programs, including National Drive Electric Week, Drive Electric Earth Month, PlugStar.com, and other public outreach events. With Plug In America’s coalition of plug-in vehicle drivers, policy experts and technical advisors, their expertise represents the world’s deepest pool of experience in driving and living with plug-in vehicles. The organization’s motto is: “We drive electric. You can too.” Learn more at PlugInAmerica.org.
Media contact: Lindsey Perkins
